The current-generation Lexus IS sedan first went on sale in 2005 and in keeping with the carmaker’s practice of refreshing its models every three to four years the popular sedan has undergone a minor facelift for the 2009 model year. Changes to the car are minimal, and include a few minor styling updates both inside and out plus a tweaked suspension set-up.

Exterior changes include newly designed 17 and 18in wheels, front and rear bumpers, a revised front grille, and side rear-view mirrors with incorporated turn signals. The interior will receive an updated center cluster and foldable rear headrests.

Mechanically, both the IS 250 and IS 350 receive a revised suspension and steering tuning. In addition, the IS 250 will come standard with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) with a cutoff switch, which was previously available only on the IS 350.

The 2009 IS 250 manual and automatic, IS 250 all-wheel drive, and IS 350 receive a 0.8-1.0% price increase of $300. This means that the IS 250 with manual transmission will carry a base price of $31,155, while the automatic starts at $32,325. The IS 250 with AWD will set you back $34,785, while the IS 350 has a base price of $36,605.

Launched earlier this year, the Lexus IS-F also will receive a few enhancements for the 2009 model year. New features include a revised instrument panel cluster, illuminated mirror controls, a newly designed moonroof switch, and a piano-black center-cluster finish for navigation-equipped vehicles. The 2009 IS-F will have a base price of $56,610, an increase of 1.1% or $610 over the current model.

2009 Lexus IS sedan facelift